County Commission Plans Major Upgrades Amid Community Losses
August 28, 2024 | Hampshire County, West Virginia
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In a recent meeting of the Hampshire County Commission, members gathered to address several key issues affecting the community, including emergency services, health department upgrades, and broadband expansion.
The meeting commenced with a prayer led by the county chaplain, acknowledging recent losses within the courthouse community. Following this, the commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting without any corrections.
Commission President reported on discussions with the Hampshire County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) regarding the financial sustainability of the service. The $100 fee, initially intended to support volunteer services, has expanded to cover county-wide needs, placing financial strain on the system. The commission is strategizing to ensure the EMS remains viable amid rising costs.
A significant development discussed was the construction of a negative pressure room at the health department, funded by a grant from Governor Justice. This facility aims to enhance the county's preparedness for potential health outbreaks, with construction expected to begin this fall and last approximately one year.
The commission also addressed the recent passing of Deputy Assessor Matthew Trimble, planning to close the annex until noon on Friday to allow employees to attend his funeral.
In terms of economic development, the commission highlighted ongoing efforts to sell a large parcel in the tech park, which could alleviate the park's debt. Additionally, discussions with Aquabank regarding a $10.5 million tax-exempt bond for further development in the tech park were noted, with a presentation expected at a future meeting.
Broadband expansion was another focal point, with updates on various projects aimed at increasing internet access across Hampshire County. The commission reported that 1,424 locations now have fiber broadband availability, with several ongoing construction projects expected to enhance connectivity further.
Overall, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to addressing community needs through strategic planning and collaboration with various stakeholders.
The meeting commenced with a prayer led by the county chaplain, acknowledging recent losses within the courthouse community. Following this, the commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting without any corrections.
Commission President reported on discussions with the Hampshire County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) regarding the financial sustainability of the service. The $100 fee, initially intended to support volunteer services, has expanded to cover county-wide needs, placing financial strain on the system. The commission is strategizing to ensure the EMS remains viable amid rising costs.
A significant development discussed was the construction of a negative pressure room at the health department, funded by a grant from Governor Justice. This facility aims to enhance the county's preparedness for potential health outbreaks, with construction expected to begin this fall and last approximately one year.
The commission also addressed the recent passing of Deputy Assessor Matthew Trimble, planning to close the annex until noon on Friday to allow employees to attend his funeral.
In terms of economic development, the commission highlighted ongoing efforts to sell a large parcel in the tech park, which could alleviate the park's debt. Additionally, discussions with Aquabank regarding a $10.5 million tax-exempt bond for further development in the tech park were noted, with a presentation expected at a future meeting.
Broadband expansion was another focal point, with updates on various projects aimed at increasing internet access across Hampshire County. The commission reported that 1,424 locations now have fiber broadband availability, with several ongoing construction projects expected to enhance connectivity further.
Overall, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to addressing community needs through strategic planning and collaboration with various stakeholders.
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